Banpresto Games Collection
Founded in 1977 as a toy manufacturer, Banpresto evolved into one of Japan's most prolific game developers specializing in crossover titles and licensed adaptations. Now operating as part of Bandai Namco Entertainment, Banpresto is best known for its Super Robot Wars tactical RPG series and numerous anime-based games. The company has built a reputation for delivering fan-service-heavy experiences that faithfully recreate beloved franchises in interactive form.
Origins and Early Arcade Era
Originally established as Coreland, the company rebranded to Banpresto in 1982 and initially focused on arcade machines and prize figures. Their early gaming efforts included:- Arcade classics like Sky Kid (1985) and Dragon Spirit (1987)
- Licensed titles based on Ultraman and Kamen Rider
- Partnership with Namco for distribution networks
Super Robot Wars Revolution
The 1991 release of Super Robot Wars for Game Boy launched Banpresto's signature series:- Innovative crossover gameplay combining mecha from 20+ anime
- Tactical grid-based combat with flashy attack animations
- Branching storylines respecting each series' canon
- Over 90 installments across 30+ years
The series became a cultural phenomenon, credited with reviving interest in classic mecha anime.
Licensed Game Expertise
Banpresto became the go-to developer for anime/manga adaptations:- Dragon Ball Z fighting games (The Legacy of Goku series)
- One Piece RPGs and fighters
- Naruto and Bleach arena battlers
- Disney and Ghibli collaborations
Their games stood out for meticulous attention to source material details.
Modern Era and Legacy
After merging with Bandai Namco in 2008, Banpresto:- Continued Super Robot Wars with HD visuals and voice acting
- Expanded into mobile (Cross Omega, DD)
- Developed Summon Night and Another Century's Episode spinoffs
While no longer an independent label, Banpresto's influence persists through its unique approach to crossover storytelling and licensed game development.
The second installment in the crossover tactical RPG series featuring mecha from various anime franchises. Players command a squad of iconic robots in grid-based battles against the DC Army, with improved gameplay mechanics from the first game.
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers is a side-scrolling beat 'em up based on the popular TV series. Players control the five Power Rangers as they fight Rita Repulsa's monsters across various locations from the show.
An arcade beat 'em up based on the iconic Japanese superhero franchise. Players control Ultraman to battle giant monsters across various cityscapes using signature attacks like the Specium Ray.
Ultra X Weapons (known as Ultra Keibitai in Japan) is a 1995 arcade run and gun shooter by Banpresto. Players control elite soldiers equipped with transforming weapons through 6 stages of intense alien invasion combat. Notable for its weapon morphing system and cooperative 2-player action.
2005 arcade fighting game featuring super-deformed Gundam mobile suits in fast-paced 3D battles. Players select from 40+ units across Universal Century and Cosmic Era timelines, with special team formations and EX attacks.
Mobile Suit Gundam is an arcade action game based on the legendary anime series. Players pilot various mobile suits in intense 3D battles across iconic locations from the Universal Century timeline.
A sci-fi action game featuring transforming mecha combat. Players control the Iron Clad armor that can switch between humanoid and vehicle modes to battle alien invaders in side-scrolling stages.
The first Super Robot Wars title for Game Boy Advance, featuring an original storyline with mecha from 16 different anime series. Introduces the new 'Battleship Command' system and improved sprite animations.
The fourth GBA installment featuring mecha from 16 different anime series, introducing the innovative 'Twin Battle System' for combination attacks.
A tactical RPG featuring crossover battles between iconic mecha anime series. Players command a customizable protagonist and their team through grid-based battles with flashy combat animations.
Super Robot Wars R is a tactical RPG featuring mecha from various anime series. The game combines strategic grid-based battles with an original storyline that crosses over multiple mecha universes.
Super Robot Wars: Original Generation is a 2002 tactical RPG featuring original mecha designs instead of licensed anime robots. Players command squads of pilots like Ryusei Date and Kyosuke Nanbu in grid-based battles with combo attacks and customizable weapon systems.
The sequel featuring Banpresto's original mecha characters in an exclusive storyline. Continues the conflict between Earth forces and alien invaders with enhanced combat systems and new protagonist units.
The third installment in the legendary Super Robot Wars series, featuring crossover battles between famous mecha anime series. This SNES version introduces improved graphics and new gameplay systems compared to its Famicom predecessors.
The fourth installment in the Super Robot Wars series, expanding the crossover battles with more mecha anime series and refined gameplay mechanics. This SNES sequel introduces new systems like the 'Twin Battle' combo attacks between allied units.
A unique chapter in the Super Robot Wars series, EX features a three-part storyline focusing on the Masou Kishin sub-series. This SNES installment introduces branching narrative paths and deeper character development.
Based on the 1995 film, this side-scrolling beat 'em up lets players control the Power Rangers as they battle Ivan Ooze's forces across 6 stages. Features all 6 Rangers with unique moves and the ability to morph into their armored forms.
The first Super Robot Wars title for Bandai's WonderSwan handheld, condensing the signature tactical RPG gameplay into a portable format. Features 25 playable units from 12 different mecha anime series.